Gather your loved ones and enjoy the heartwarming tradition of an Italian Sunday dinner.
From rich, flavorful pasta dishes topped with savory sauce to crusty bread, fresh salads, and perfectly seasoned meats, this meal is all about bringing family together around the table to share love and laughter.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to indulge in comforting flavors, we’ve got you covered with the best traditional Italian dishes.
Don’t forget to explore our quick and easy dinner recipes for even more inspiration to keep the whole family satisfied!

What is an Italian Sunday Dinner?
This meal is centered around family and food. It typically features a multi-course meal with hearty, homemade dishes. This meal isn’t just about eating; it’s about slowing down and enjoying those around you. It often includes comforting classics like pasta, different types of meat, salads, and freshly baked bread, all served with love and care.
What is a Traditional Italian Sunday Dinner?
- Antipasto – A variety of appetizers, such as cured meats, cheeses, olives, and bruschetta.
- Primo (First Course) – A pasta dish, risotto, or soup, often featuring rich sauces or seasonal ingredients.
- Secondo (Main Course) – Roasted or braised meats like beef, lamb, or chicken, accompanied by sides of roasted vegetables.
- Contorno (Side Dish) – Simple salads or cooked greens to complement the main dish.
- Dolce (Dessert) – Traditional Italian dessert recipes such as Tiramisu, cannoli, or panna cotta are popular sweet endings.
- Coffee and Digestivo – Espresso or liqueurs like limoncello to round off the meal.














Typically the meal begins in the early afternoon, around 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, depending on the family and its traditions. It’s often a leisurely event, stretching over several hours. The midday start allows time to relax and digest while still leaving the evening open for family time or light snacks.
Craving a delicious, hearty meal? Try these pasta recipes that are perfect for any occasion or make your holiday meals extra special with these Christmas pasta recipes!
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Warm up your evenings with these cozy soup recipes that are perfect for chilly nights. Grab a bowl and dive into ultimate comfort food!
Hosting a party? These perfect finger food recipes are guaranteed to be a hit. Make your gathering unforgettable with these easy crowd-pleasers!
Take your dishes to the next level by using fresh herbs with your Italian recipes. Discover tips and recipes to bring authentic flavors straight to your kitchen.
Turn simple veggies into something extraordinary! These roasted fresh vegetable recipes are bursting with flavor and so easy to make—try them tonight!
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Sunday Italian Dinner Recipes
Sunday just got tastier! Discover our Italian Sunday Dinner ideas for a hearty and unforgettable meal with your loved ones.
Savor the classic flavors of this mouth-watering Chicken Parmesan! This recipe guides you through creating crispy, golden chicken cutlets topped with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Looking for a speedy meal? Try Instant Pot spaghetti! It’s easy, tasty, and perfect for busy weeknights.